Types of Tooth Gems and Materials Explained

“Tooth gem” is a catch-all term that covers everything from a two-dollar rhinestone to a real diamond in a gold setting. The material you choose affects the look, the price, how it catches the light, and to some degree how it wears. Here is a plain guide to the main options.

Crystal and rhinestone gems

The most common and affordable gems are cut glass or acrylic rhinestones and cubic zirconia (CZ). CZ in particular is popular because it is clear, hard, and sparkles convincingly like a diamond at a fraction of the cost. These gems come in a wide range of sizes and colours, making them the usual starting point for a first gem. They are flat-backed so they sit neatly against the tooth.

Swarovski crystals

Swarovski is a brand of precision-cut leaded glass crystal, prized for consistent faceting and bright, even sparkle. A Swarovski gem costs more than a generic rhinestone but noticeably less than a precious stone, which is why it is a favourite middle-ground choice. The cut is what you are paying for — the facets throw light more crisply than cheaper glass.

Solid gold charms

Instead of a faceted stone, some gems are small shapes cut or cast from real gold — hearts, stars, initials, tiny hoops. Gold is biocompatible, does not tarnish, and gives a warm, understated look quite different from a sparkling crystal. Because it is a precious metal, price scales with the karat and the size. Gold charms suit people who want something subtle and durable rather than flashy.

Real diamonds and precious stones

At the top end are genuine diamonds and other precious gemstones, sometimes set in a gold bezel. These are the most expensive option by a wide margin and are usually reserved for a statement piece. A real diamond is extremely hard and brilliant, but the higher cost also means a bigger loss if it ever comes off, so aftercare matters even more.

Shapes, colours, and settings

Beyond the material, gems vary in shape (round brilliant, teardrop, star, heart), colour (clear is classic, but pinks, blues, and aurora-borealis finishes are popular), and whether the stone is loose-set or held in a metal frame. A clear or silver-toned gem tends to read as subtle sparkle on whiter teeth, while a coloured or black stone stands out more. Our gem shade matcher helps you picture how a colour will play against your own tooth shade.

Size matters as much as material

Whatever the material, size is chosen to suit the tooth. Front-tooth gems typically run between about 1.8 mm and 3 mm across, and a size that looks bold on a narrow tooth can look lost on a broad one. Proportion, not just sparkle, is what makes a gem look intentional. The gem size & tooth fit selector matches a diameter to your tooth width.

Which material is right for you?

There is no single best material — it depends on budget, the look you want, and how long you plan to keep it. A CZ or rhinestone is perfect for trying the look without much outlay. Swarovski steps up the sparkle. Gold is the choice for something quiet and lasting. Diamonds are for a genuine statement. Whatever you pick, the material should be applied with proper dental adhesive by a professional, and the gem itself should be flat-backed and smooth so it bonds cleanly and does not irritate the lip or gum.

If you are unsure what suits your teeth — especially if you have existing dental work on the front teeth — ask a dentist. This guide is general information about materials, not advice about your specific case.